Geospatial Analysis of Shoreline Changes and their Socio-Economic Implications for Littoral Communities in Effiat, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

This research documents the application of Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques in the analysis of shoreline changes in Mbo Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State. Satellite images from 1989, 1999, 2009, and 2019 were used to extract the shoreline through heads-up digitization. The study also presents findings on the impacts of shoreline changes on the socio-economic components of the environment, including a decline in fishing harvests and physical damage to buildings. The communities along the shoreline were divided into four (4) strata (A-D). The results indicated that the accretion rate ranged from 4.32 m to 26.14 m, while the erosion rate ranged from -1.95 m to -42.8 m. This suggests that the shoreline is eroding at a faster rate than it is accreting. The study revealed diverse socio-economic impacts of shoreline changes, including a decline in fishing activities, low income levels, and saltwater intrusion. These findings help explain the submergence of residential buildings and the persistent inundation of large portions of land in the area. Therefore, regular assessment and monitoring of the shoreline should be conducted to model future scenarios and identify safe zones for effective adaptation measures for the littoral communities.